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Released by email on June 22, 2010
Subject: CFW Leadership Transition News
Growth and transition
As a supporter of Chicago Foundation for Women, you know we've been on the move. We've come far, fast. We are now guided by an exciting strategic plan (PDF) that returns the Foundation to its roots as a philanthropic organization. We're refocused on achieving our primary goal of helping women and girls by making smarter connections between need, money and solutions.
And it is with a mixture of regret and understanding that we tell those who are unaware that our Executive Director, Kelly White, has resigned. Family reasons drive Kelly's decision to return to Austin, Texas, but her strong commitment to CFW is guiding a smooth transition. We're pleased to update you on the plan to ensure that Chicago Foundation for Women continues the direction, momentum and leadership we have in place as a leading advocate for women and girls in our community.
President and CEO search underway
We are moving forward expeditiously to recruit a new permanent leader for the Foundation. Our search committee, under the leadership of Board Chair-elect Andie Kramer, has retained The Himmelfarb Group to implement the search for the position that is now called President and CEO. The job announcement is posted on our website (PDF). We are committed to a quick yet thorough search process, and to that end we request your help. Please take a moment to think about any qualified candidates in your networks and forward the announcement to them.
Merri Ex to serve as Interim President and CEO
We are also pleased to announce that Merri Ex (pictured at right) will serve as Interim President and CEO of Chicago Foundation for Women starting July 1. Merri has been a leader in Chicago's nonprofit community for 35 years. Merri brings extensive experience running nonprofit agencies, managing corporate philanthropy programs, and assisting individuals and families to implement their charitable objectives. Most recently, Merri has been a Senior Advisor to Chicago Foundation for Women where, over the past year, she played a key role helping us strengthen our development team and update our grantmaking processes. Although Merri is not applying for the vacancy, we are delighted that she is assuming this interim role to ensure that we continue CFW's direction, momentum and leadership as a leading advocate for women and girls in our community.
Our celebration of "25 Years Strong" continues
Merri steps up to lead our team us just as we are celebrating the Foundation's 25th anniversary. Last week the Foundation approved the largest round of grants in several years. We are delighted to award $411,000 to 30 organizations working to help women and girls thrive in our community. Our celebration will continue on September 30 at our 25th Anniversary Luncheon featuring CNN's Soledad O'Brien, and we look forward to seeing you there.
We will continue to keep you posted on our progress. As always, we are grateful for your support of the Foundation.
Sincerely,
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Gail Ludewig
Chair |
Andrea S. Kramer
Chair-elect |
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